A Massive Bronze Statue (The Budha of the Western Paradise)

#aprilblooms #southkorea #historicallandmarks #localguides Gakwonsa Temple (각원사) is a serene Buddhist temple nestled on the slopes of Mt. Taejosan in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea. Established on May 9, 1977, the temple was built to pray for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. It is renowned for its massive bronze statue of Amita-bul (the Buddha of the Western Paradise), which stands 15 meters tall, weighs 60 tons, and features 175-centimeter-long ears and 30-centimeter-long nails .  Address: 245 Gagwonsa-gil, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea (충청남도 천안시 동남구 각원사길 245)  Admission: Free of charge.  Operating Hours: Open 24 hours daily, year-round.  Highlights: • Massive Bronze Buddha Statue: A 15-meter-tall seated Buddha statue, one of the largest in Asia, is the temple’s most iconic feature. Visitors often walk around it in prayer and reflection.  • Daeungbojeon Hall: Located to the left of the statue, this is the largest Buddhist prayer hall in Korea, attracting many Buddhist followers as a prayer site .  • Scenic Hiking Trails: The temple is situated halfway up Mt. Taejosan, offering various nature trails that wind through the forest and up the mountain, providing a peaceful environment for exploration and reflection .  • Seasonal Beauty: The temple grounds are particularly picturesque during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Gakwonsa Temple offers a tranquil escape from the city, combining spiritual significance with natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in Buddhist culture, architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this temple is a worthwhile destination.